By Gwurld4026 
NY Stands Firm Against Trump on Equity in Education
New York state officials have formally refused to comply with the Trump administration’s directive to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices in public schools. In a letter dated April 4, 2025, Daniel Morton-Bentley, counsel and deputy commissioner of the New York State Department of Education, asserted that the federal government lacks the authority to mandate such changes.
He emphasized that no federal or state laws prohibit DEI principles, and questioned the legitimacy of the administration’s demand, stating that funding cannot legally be withdrawn without a formal administrative process.
This response follows the Trump administration’s order requiring K-12 schools nationwide to certify within ten days that they are adhering to federal civil rights laws and discontinuing any discriminatory DEI practices as a condition for receiving federal funding.
The administration contends that certain DEI initiatives may discriminate against specific groups, such as white individuals and men.
The dispute highlights broader tensions over federal authority in education policy and the role of DEI programs in public schools. New York’s stance sets the stage for potential legal challenges and underscores the complexities of balancing federal directives with state educational priorities.